Aircraft seat child restraint device

ABSTRACT

A small child and infant restraint device is disclosed which can be used with an existing seat of a transportation member such as an aircraft passenger seat. The restraint device includes a base member connected to a back panel by a hinge member. A seat pan provides a seating surface for the child or infant. A seat belt path is defined between the seat pan and the base member for disposal across the base member of a seat belt associated with the existing passenger seat, for attaching the restraint device to the existing passenger seat. The restraint device can be utilized in a forward facing configuration or in an aft facing configuration. The forward facing configuration is utilized with small children and toddlers, while the aft facing configuration is utilized with infants and small children without sufficient neck development. When the device is not in use, the back panel is folded down towards the base member to form a relatively thin stowable assembly where it can be properly stored.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to infant and toddler'sprotective devices and in particular to a child restraint devicesdesigned for attachment to a vehicle seat such as an aircraft passengerseat.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Child restraint devices have basically been designed for use inprivately owned passenger automobiles. This use is limited to normallyone or two children over the useful life of the restraint device.Furthermore, the restraint device is designed for long stable placementsin normally one or two automobiles. As the restraint device is intendedfor long stable placements, relatively routine removal and replacementof the attached device in a passenger seat is generally a cumbersomeprocess.

Examples of previous restraint devices include U.S. Pat. No. 4,040,664issued to Tanaka et al. for a "Harness Anchoring for Child Safety Seat":U.S. Pat. No. 3,709,558 issued to Jakob for a "Child Safety Seat"; U.S.Pat. No. 3,992,040 issued to Gannac for a "Safety Harness for Use By aChild In a Vehicle"; U.S. Pat. No. 3,321,247 issued to Dillender for a"Child's Safety Harness"; U.S. Pat. No. 3,301,594 issued to Pukish for a"Safety Harness"; and U.S. Pat. No. 3,125,375 issued to Bird et al. fora "Safety Seat Harness for Vehicle".

Between forty thousand (40,000) to fifty thousand (50,000) childrenunder the age to two (2) travel by airplane daily in the United States.Current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules allow children underthe age of two (2) to be retained in parents' laps, which obviouslyprovides little, if any, protection to the child during an accident orin an emergency situation. Recent studies found that placingunrestrained children on the lap of an adult is "likely to promotefatalities and injuries to these children in an impact situation."Additionally, supplementary restraints for lap held children was foundto possibly "promote other injuries due to the manner in which therestraining forces are transmitted to the children."

Performance standards for child restraint systems sold in the UnitedStates are defined by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213(FMVSS-213) . Performance criteria of child restraint systems installedin airplane seats should at least provide the level of protectionimplied in the government standards and test procedures by which theyare approved. These criteria include protection from serious injury tothe head, chest, and legs.

Conventional restraint devices used for automobiles are inadequate foruse with existing aircraft seats. There are important differencesbetween airplane and automobile seats. The main problem is the fact thatthe anchor point for an automobile seat is located generally aft andbelow the point where the back and sitting portion of the frame membersmeet. As seen in FIG. 1, a back mounted conventional car restraintdevice 400 is shown attached to a conventional airline passenger seat300 by the insertion of seat belt 180 through a slot 402. With thisattachment, the attachment point of the car restraint device 400 isadjacent to a center of gravity 403 of the secured child which preventssignificant, if any, vertical movement of restraint device 400. However,the attachment angle is approximately one hundred and ten (110°)degrees, which places the attachment point too far back for safetypurposes. Thus, in an airline accident, car restraint device 400 is notsecured tightly, relative to the imposed horizontal vector, and can movetranslationally (horizontally), as indicated by arrow T, at least six(6) inches creating an unsafe condition for the child secured within carrestraint device 400.

A "below the knee" mounted car restraint device 450 is shown attached toa conventional airline passenger seat 300 by the insertion of seat belt180 through a slot 452 (FIG. 2). With this attachment, the attachmentpoint of the car restraint device 450 is below a center of gravity 453of the secured child. Furthermore, the attachment angle is approximatelytwenty (20°) degrees, which places the attachment point too far forwardfor safety purposes. Thus, in an airline accident, car restraint device450 is not secured tightly relative to the vertical vector and can moverotationally, as indicated by arrow R, creating an unsafe condition forthe child secured within car restraint device 450.

FAA's studies have shown that conventional car seats perform poorly insimulated aircraft accidents. Present automotive standards allow forforward head translation of thirty two (32) inches, but consideringcurrent aircraft seat pitches, the proper limit for an aircraft deviceshould be closer to twenty four (24) inches. Seat belts 180 used forexisting aircraft are positioned approximately 10 inches forward fromthe point that the automobile seat belts are located. Thus, if aircraftseat belt 180 is inserted through the slot in the back portion of theconventional restraint device a tight attachment of the device to theaircraft seat is not possible.

Thus, during an accident the loose attachment of a conventional carrestraint device to an aircraft passenger seat, would cause therestraint device to rotate or travel forward, via rotational ortranslational forces acting on the aircraft passenger seat. Thisscenario could possibly cause the child or infant disposed therein tohit his or her head against the food tray or seat disposed in the row infront of the infant or child. Accordingly, conventional restraintdevices can not be sufficiently anchored to prevent a child's head fromstriking the seat ahead. As such, too much forward or rotationalmovement is allowed. Even when the forward or rotational movement iswithin federal standards of thirty two (32) inches, a child's head canstill hit the seat ahead.

According, to FAA document No. DOT/FAA/AM-94/19 entitled "ThePerformance of Child Restraint Devices in Transport Airplane PassengerSeats" dated September 1994 (hereinafter referred to as the "FAAReport"), lap belts for automobiles are attached at locations that aregeometrically different from a typical airplane passenger seat. Inboardand outboard belt anchor points 602 and 604, respectively, on anautomotive seat 600 are at different heights (FIG. 17). A line passingthrough the belt anchor points is not parallel to the lateral linedefined by a seat back pivot axis 606. The lap belts on an airplane seat700 are usually located near a horizontal lateral line passing through acushion reference point 702 (FIG. 16). This difference results in a morevertical lap belt path over the restraint device in the airplane seat.

Automotive seat backs do not rotate forward in a manner representativeof airplane passenger seats during impact. See FAA report which isincorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. Airplanepassenger seats commonly have breakover seat backs as a conveniencefeature. On seats with breakover backs, the seat back can be rotatedforward to a horizontal position by pushing on the seat back, nominallywith thirty (30) pounds of force applied at the top of the seat back.The combined effects of breakover seat backs and aft row occupant impactforces transferred through the seat back in an accident situation werenot evaluated by FMVSS-213 when the current standards were adopted.

Additional problems with the use of conventional restraint devices isthat modern automobile restraints use a short fixed-length strap on oneside. The tension of the belts and shoulder straps is automaticallyadjusted by the retractor mechanism in the inertia reel. Typically, anautomobile buckle is positioned to the inboard side of the occupant whenin use. See FAA Report. Airplane passenger seat belts are manuallyadjusted, and the range of adjustment is limited. The buckle on anairplane passenger seat is centered over the lower abdomen when adjustedby an adult occupant.

Another problem is that the available lateral space for the installationof a child restraint device on airplane seats is limited to the distancebetween the arm rests. Typically, this distance is 16.5 to 17.5 incheson economy class seats. On most economy class seats the arm rests can beraised to stowed position which provides additional space. However,seats in some rows have non-stowable arm rests. See FAA Report. Thus,space requirements are also an important consideration for the childrestraint device.

The FAA Report found that conventional forward facing restraint deviceswere unacceptably loose when attached to an airplane passenger seat dueto vertical path of the lap belt securing the device to seat. Thevertical path of the lap belt is created by the lap belt anchor point ofthe airplane seat. During testing, the restraint device was able to moveforward approximately six (6) inches, even with the lap belt adjusted toits minimum length. See FAA Report. This loosely secured conventionalchild restraint device resulted in poor performance during testing andcould cause serious injury in use. The FAA report labeled the poorinterface with airplane lap belts which resulted in a very loose fit asa "misuse condition."

The attachment of the conventional child restraint device to theairplane seat results in a nearly vertical angle of the airplane lapbelts that secures the child restraint device. When installed, the lapbelt path angle from the airplane seat attachment to the child restraintdevice ranged from approximately eighty five (85°) to ninety three (93°)degrees above horizontal. This vertical load path does not produce aneffective restraint of forward motion. See FAA Report. An angle greaterthan ninety (90°) degrees means the seat belt anchor is forward of thechild restraint device's belt path. During horizontal impact conditions,the child restraint device must translate forward until the belt pathangle is significantly less than ninety (90°) degrees for belt tensionforces to restrain the child restraint device. Accordingly, use of aconventional child restraint device on airplane passenger seats createsan undesirable and dangerous condition.

The FAA Report also found conventional harnesses and backless boosterseats to also be dangerous for aviation use. The harnesses also allowedtoo much room for movement. It was found that due to the limitedadjustment range and anchor location of the airplane seat lap belts, theharness restraint could not satisfactorily restrain the motion of atypical three (3) year old child. See FAA Report. The loose tensions ofthe lap belts did not provided a secure restraint utilizing the harness.As to booster seats, airline seat backs, are designed to rotate forward.As the child booster seat are backless, in a crash a child could becrushed between the booster seat and the seat back. The FAA Report alsofound that the booster seat could not be correctly installed in anairplane seat and that the child occupant could be exposed to potentialabdominal injury due to the combined effects of forces imparted from theaft row occupant and the seat back breakover.

The FAA Report concluded that the performance of certain types of childrestraint devices, currently available, do not enhance the level ofsafety for children in transport airplane passenger seats and that theexpectation of equivalent protection for children restrained in certaintypes of child restraint device traveling by automobile can not be metin an airplane seat. FAA Report, Page 27. One of the stated reasons forthese negative results is that the restraint devices are designed tomeet automotive requirements, which do not necessarily adapt properly toan airplane seat. Airplane seat belts differ in anchor point geometry,tension adjustment, and buckle hardware. The lap belt anchor pointgeometry on airplane seats does not afford effective restraint offorward excursion of the occupant with this type of child restraint.These differences adversely affect the performance of child restraintdevices designed primarily for the automobile interior.

Additionally, conventional aft facing child restraint devices also havethe problem of interfering with passage between the seat rows and therecline motion of a forward row seat due to the forward overhang of theaft facing restraint.

Furthermore, any modification to any part of an aircraft requiresextensive testing to be performed per strict aviation regulations. Thisis in addition to the cost and time which is involved for such testingand modifications of a new aircraft seat, as well as the time involvedin obtaining governmental approval. Thus, the possibility of changingthe position of seat belts on existing airline passenger seats, to makeuse with car restraint devices safe, is not practical.

Accordingly, what is needed in the art, is a child restraint devicewhich can be safely utilized with an existing aircraft passenger seatand lap belt in either a forward facing orientation or an aft facingorientation, and without modification to the aircraft seat or lap belt.It is therefore, to the effective resolution of the aforementionedproblems and shortcomings that the present invention is directed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a small child and infant restraint devicewhich can be used with an existing seat of a transportation member suchas an aircraft passenger seat. The restraint device includes a basemember connected to a back panel by a hinge member. The back panel canbe disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the base member andretained in place by a locking pin. A seat pan provides a seatingsurface for the child or infant and is connected at its rear end to thebase member by a second hinged member. A latching member can be providedapproximate to the front end of the seat pan to provide support for andsecurement of the seat pan. A seat belt path is defined between the seatpan and the base member for disposal across the base member of a seatbelt associated with the existing seat for attaching the restraintdevice to the existing passenger seat.

The restraint device can be utilized in a forward facing configurationor in an aft facing configuration. In the forward facing configurationthe base member is disposed upon the sitting area of the existing seat.The forward facing configuration is utilized with small children andtoddlers, while the aft facing configuration is utilized with infantsand small children without sufficient structural development (i.e., neckstrength). In the aft facing configuration two wing structures arepositioned to support the restraint device at an angle (approximatelyone hundred and thirty five (135°) degrees). This angle provides comfortsupport and appropriate restraint for infants, and is comparable toconventional new born restraints utilized with private automobiles.

When the device is not in use, the back panel is folded down towards thebase member to form a relatively thin stowable assembly where it can beproperly stored. Due to the size and weight characteristics of therestraint device, it is easily storable, as well as transportable. Thisfactor is important given the limited storage space in manytransportation vehicles and aircrafts.

The present invention child restraint device is designed for useprimarily by common carriers and public transportation authorities witha responsibility for carriage of small children and infants coincidentwith one or more family members. The child restraint device is designedfor use by many children over the operating life of the device. Thedevice is also designed to accommodate the various sizes, strengths,weights and shapes of small children and infants. The present inventionis easily installed onto an existing seat, while also providing forquick release of the child in emergency situations.

Preferably, trained personnel are provided for attaching the restraintdevice to the existing seat to assure a proper controlled installationand that the restraint device meets performance requirements in aspecified manner. The restraint device is secured to the vehicle seatusing a conventional seat belt or seat and shoulder belt combination.The present invention restraint device provides restraint belt optionswhich allow full restraint at times of greatest risk and a more simplerlap belt restraint at times of less risk.

To meet general hygiene concerns the present invention can be providedwith a disposable shield which is replaced each time a different childor infant utilizes the restraint device.

The restraint device is constructed from durable materials and providesa means for inspection for determining mechanical integrity and allowingfor item replacement in case of soiling, wear or needed repair.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a childand infant restraint device which can be safely utilized intransportation vehicles, including with airline passenger seats.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a child andinfant restraint device which operates in a forward facing orientation,as well as an aft facing orientation.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a childand infant restraint device which is secured to a conventional airlinepassenger seat without any modification of the passenger seat.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a child andinfant restraint device which meets all Federal Aviation Administrationregulations and requirements for child restraint devices.

It is an even still another object of the present invention to provide achild and infant restraint device which allows for a plurality ofrestraint belt configurations to be selected, depending on level ofrisk, for securing the child or infant within the restraint device.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a child andinfant restraint device which greatly reduces rotational andtranslational force from acting on the restraint device.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a childand infant restraint device which is relatively easy to transport andstore.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a childand infant restraint device which is designed for use by variouschildren and infants and frequent securement and removal from apassenger seat.

It is yet still another object of the present invention to provide achild and infant restraint device which is designed accommodate childrenand infants of various heights and weights.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a childand infant restraint device which is relatively easy to safely secure toa passenger seat.

In accordance with these and other objects which will become apparenthereinafter, the instant invention will now be described with particularreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be better understood by reference to the drawings inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating a conventional automotive restraintdevice attached to a conventional car seat;

FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating a conventional automotive restraintdevice attached to a conventional aircraft seat;

FIG. 3 is a back isometric view of the child restraint device inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of the invention illustrated in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating the child restraint device shown inFIG. 3 in an aft facing (infant) configuration;

FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating the child restraint device shown inFIG. 3 in a forward facing (toddler) configuration;

FIG. 7 is a side view illustrating the child restraint device shown inFIG. 3 in a folded configuration;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view illustrating the locking pin member inaccordance in accordance with the invention shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 9 is a front view illustrating a first restraint belt configurationin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a front view illustrating a second restraint beltconfiguration in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11a is an isometric view illustrating a seat pad member inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11b is a top view illustrating the seat pad shown in FIG. 11a;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view illustrating a disposable shield member inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a front isometric view illustrating an alternative frame forthe child restraint device;

FIG. 14 is a side view of alternative child restraint device embodimentillustrated in a aft facing (infant) configuration;

FIG. 15 is a side view the child restraint device shown in FIG. 14illustrated in a forward facing (toddler) configuration;

FIG. 16 is a side view of a conventional aircraft passenger seat; and

FIG. 17 is a side view of a conventional carseat having a conventionalaircraft passenger seat superimposed, in phantom, over the conventionalcarseat.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As seen in FIGS. 3 through 12, a first embodiment of the presentinvention is shown and generally designated as child restraint device20. Restraint device 20 generally includes a base member 30, a backpanel member 60, a hinged structure 90, a seat pan member 120 and arestraint belt 140. Preferably, restraint device 20 is utilized withexisting aircraft passenger seats, without requiring any modification tothe passenger seat. However, restraint device 20 may be utilized inconjunction with seats of other transportation devices, such asautomobiles, trains, etc. Base member 30 provides a secure foundationfor restraint device 20 and the dynamic load path.

Base member 30 includes a first outer end 32 and a second end 34, aswell as a top surface 36 and a bottom surface 38. A pair of supportmembers 40 and 42, having ramps 44 and 46, respectively are disposed ontop surface 36, and are preferably constructed integral with base member30. Support members 40 and 42 provide front end support for seat pan 120when seat pan 120 is in its sitting or downward position, discussedbelow. In its downward position, seat pan 120 rests upon flat portions48 and 50 of support members 40 and 42, respectively. Alternatively,support members 40 and 42 can be square shaped, thus, providing a largerarea for seat pan 120 to rest upon.

Though two support members 40 and 42 are shown, such is not limiting,and other configurations which provide support for seat pan 120 can beutilized and are considered within the scope of the invention.

A protective member 37 can be provided at least along first outer end 32to protect seat cushions 302 and 304 from ripping when restraint device20 is secured to vehicle seat 300 in either the aft facing orientationor the forward facing orientation.

A locking mechanism, such as a conventional latch means 58, can also beprovided to secure or lock seat pan 120 in its downward position. Aportion of the locking mechanism can be disposed between support members40 and 42. However, the precise position of the locking mechanism, aswell as the structure of the locking mechanism itself, is not criticalor limiting. Furthermore, though a locking mechanism is preferred formaintaining seat pan 120 in its downward position, it is not critical tothe operation of the invention that a locking mechanism is provided.

Base member 30 also includes a pair of wing structures 50, preferablyhinged to the underside of base member 30. Wing structures 50 provide ameans to properly support and restrain infants, while maintaining afixed angle of approximately one hundred and five (105°) degrees betweenbase member 30 and back panel 60. Infants and small children withoutsufficient neck strength are preferably installed in restraint device 20in an aft facing orientation (FIG. 5), utilizing wing structures 50, asopposed to a forward facing orientation (FIG. 6) . In use, wingstructures 50 bow slightly outward to prevent wing structures frominadvertently closing. Furthermore, the weight of the child or infantsecured by restraint device 20 also helps to prevent wing structuresfrom inadvertently closing.

In the aft facing orientation, wing structures 50 are rotated intoposition whereby wings 50 achieve an additional angle of approximatelythirty (30°) degrees back rotation of the small child or infant relativeto vehicle seat cushion 304. Thus, an angle of approximately one hundredand thirty five (135°) degrees back from the plane of seat cushion 304.This angle provides comfort, support and appropriate restraint forinfants.

Base member 30 can be constructed from aluminum, plastics, compositematerials, as well as other known materials. Furthermore, as seen inFIG. 13, a portion of base member 30 can be constructed from a net/mesh(webbing) material 51, or a fabric-like material, as this area of basemember 30 does not have to be rigid. By providing a web or nylonmaterial, the overall weight of restraint device 20 is reduced forconvenience considerations when transporting or lifting restraint device20. The removal of a portion of base member 30 can also provideadditional comfort for the infant or child restrained by device 20.

Back panel 60 includes a first outer end 62 and a second end 64, as wellas an inner surface 66 and an outer surface 68. Rigid side flanges 70and 72 are provided at each side of back member 60 and are preferablyconstructed integral with back panel 60. Slots 74, 76 and 78 areprovided through back panel 60 for insertion and attachment of restraintbelt 140, discussed further below. A head rest area 61 can be providedand is preferably constructed integral with back panel 60. Aconventional cushion or padding member (not shown) is preferablyprovided adjacent head rest area 61.

Flanges 70 and 72 are each preferably provided with a first aperture 80for receipt of a locking pin 108 which maintains back panel 60 inangular position with respect to base member 30 during use of restraintdevice 20. Flanges 70 and 72 can also be provided with a second aperture82 for receipt of locking pin 108 to maintain back panel 60 in a foldedposition when transporting or storing restraint device 20. In lieu ofapertures 82, restraint device 20 can be provided with a strap memberattached to either back panel 60 or base member 30 which would attachedto either base member 30 or back panel 60, respectively, by conventionalmeans such as velcro or snaps.

Back panel 60 can be constructed from aluminum, plastics, compositematerials, as well as other known materials. Furthermore, as seen inFIG. 13, similar to base member 30, a portion of back panel 60 can beconstructed from a net/mesh (webbing) material 51, or fabric-likematerial. By providing a web or nylon material, the overall weight ofrestraint device 20 is reduced for convenience considerations whentransporting or lifting restraint device 20. The removal of a portion ofback panel 60 can also provide additional comfort for the infant orchild restrained by device 20.

Hinged structure 90 is preferably constructed integral with base member30 and is disposed on top surface 36 at second end 34. Preferably, twohinged structures 90 are provided which are identical in structure andoperation. Hinged structure 90 includes a triangular block member 91having a seat belt ramp member 92 and a restraint belt receiving groove94a or 94b. Receiving groove 94 is defined between a top portion 96 oframp member 92 and a restraint belt routing finger member 98a or 98b. Asmall protrusion 100 can extend downward from finger member 98 intogroove 94 to help retain restraint belt 140 within receiving groove 94,discussed further below.

Back panel 60 is attached to hinged structure 90 by conventional meanssuch as a bolt 102 which is connected at a first end to block member 91of hinged structure 90 and at a second end to a respective flange 70 or72 of back panel 60. The attachment of back panel 60 to hinged structure90 permits back panel 60 to rotate around the attachment point of boltmember 102.

To maintain back panel 60 in its open position, a locking pin 108 isprovided. Locking pin 108 can either be turned or pushed through firstaperture 80 of respective flange 70 or 72. Preferably, locking pin 108includes grooves 109 and 111 for receipt of pin 113. To lock panel 60 inplace, pressure is exerted on locking pin 108 to cause pin 113 to bedisposed within groove 111, which in turns allows a portion of lockingpin 108 to be inserted through aperture 80, thus, maintaining back panelin proper position. To release back panel 60, pin 108 is pulled outward,causing pin 113 to be disposed within groove 109, and removing lockingpin 108 from its position within aperture 80 and allowing back panel 60to be rotated relative to base member 30. Locking pin 108 can beprovided with a knurled gripping area 115, for easier handling.

When first aperture 80 is aligned with locking pin 108 to allowinsertion of locking 108 therethrough, back panel 60 is designed to bespecifically form approximately a one hundred and five (105°) degreeangle with respect to base member 30.

Restraint device 20 is designed to fold into a relatively thin(approximately four (4) inches) stowable assembly. When storing ortransporting restraint device 20, locking pin 108 is removed from itsinserted position within aperture 80 to allow back panel 60 to be foldedtowards base member 30 (FIG. 7). Once in its closed position, lockingpin 108 can be inserted through second aperture 82 of respective flanges70 and 72, to retain restraint device 20 in its closed position.

Seat pan 120 has a first end 122 and a second end 124, as well as a topsurface 126 and a bottom surface 128. Seat pan 120 includes a latchingmember 130 which is attached to bottom surface 128 and mates withlocking mechanism 58 disposed on top surface 36 of base member 30 tomaintain seat pan 120 in its downward (sitting) position. Seat pan 120provides a sitting or resting surface for the small child or infant andis connected through a separate hinged member located at the rear ofseat pan 120 to base member 30.

Seat pan 120 can be rotated from an upward position to its downwardposition by its attachment approximate its second end 124. In oneattachment embodiment a first set of block members 132 are disposed ontop surface 36 of base member 30 and are associated with a second set ofblock members 134 by a bolt member 136. When moving seat pan from anupward position to its downward position, second block members 134rotate around respective first block members 132 at bolt member 136.Block members 132 and 134 also provide support for seat pan 120 at itsrear end.

A seat belt passageway 134 is defined between seat pan 120 and basemember 30 for insertion therethrough of a conventional seat belt 180, totighten restraint device 20 to existing seat 300, without anymodification to seat 300. When attaching restraint device 20 to seat300, restraint device 20 is removed from its storage location and placedon seat member. If the forward facing configuration is desired (FIG. 6),base member 30 is resting upon sitting area 304 of seat 300.

In use, the installer (a flight attendant in one use of the presentinvention) releases locking pin 108 from second aperture 82 and rotatesback panel 60 to its open position and inserts locking pin 108 intoaperture 80, as described above. Next, locking mechanism 58 is releasedand the installer lifts or rotates seat pan 120 up to provide access toseat belt passageway 134. The installer then routes seat belt 180 acrosspassageway 134 and tightly connects seat belt 180 by conventional means,i.e. buckles. Seat belt 180 is connected tightly to either ramp portion92 of hinged structure 90 (forward facing configuration) or base member130 in between ramp portions 40, 42 and 92 (aft facing configuration) inorder to safely secure restraint device 20 to existing seat member 300.In either the forward facing orientation or the aft facing orientation,seat belt 180 forms approximately a forty five (45°) degree angle whenproperly tightened to effectively prevent most, if not all,translational and rotational forces from acting on restraint device 20.

Preferably, when tightening restraint device 20 to seat 300, theinstaller applies pressure on base member 30 to assure for a tighterfit. With seat belt 180 secured, the installer returns seat pan 120 downto its latched or locked position, and restraint device 20 is then readyfor seating by the small child or infant passenger.

In either configuration, when restraint device 20 is properly attached,a portion of restraint device 20, in additional to resting on sittingarea 304 of seat 300, also abuts a portion of back area 302 of seat 300(back panel 60 in the forward facing configuration and the outer edge ofbase member 30 in the aft facing configuration). Also in eitherconfiguration, the attachment angle of seat belt 180 approximately fortyfive (45°) which prevents restraint device 20 from either relativelymoving significantly in a horizontal (translational) direction, verticaldirection or from rotating.

Once restraint device 20 is properly attached and the child or infanthas been properly positioned in restraint device 20, the child isproperly secured within restraint device 20 by a restraint belt 140.Restraint belt 140 is a single continuous belt which is attached at itsmiddle area to a dowel member 75. Dowel member 75 is attached to backpanel 60 by conventional means and is preferably constructed integralwith back panel 60 to define slots 74. As dowel member 75 is associatedwith the middle of restraint belt 140, restraint belt 140 is dividedinto two belt portions 142a and 142b. Both belt portions 142a and 142bextend out of slot 74. Belt portion 142a is then fed through slot 76,while belt portion 142b is fed through slot 78.

When securing the child or infant, belt portion 142a is angled to foldover finger member 98b and through groove 94b. Similarly, belt portion142b is angled to fold over finger member 98a and through groove 94a,wherein the respective ends of restraint belt are joined together byconventional means, such as buckle means 143. Once joined, the sectionsof belt portions 142a and 142b which are disposed between lockingfingers 98a and 98b form a lap restraint member 145, while the remainingsections of belt portions 142a and 142b define an "X" shaped harnessrestraint member 147. Restraint belt 140 provides a single release pointwhich controls both lap restraint member 145 and harness restraintmember 147 to allow for relatively quick and easy removal of therestrained child or infant in an emergency situation.

The belting configuration shown in FIG. 9, is largely self-adjusting tothe size and shape of child user to best restrain his or her forwardmovement in a vehicle impact accident, as pressure on upper torsorestraint member 147 results in a corresponding tightening of the lowerrestraint member 145.

Thus, routing finger members 98a and 98b translate the direction of beltportions 142b and 142a, respectively, from across the child or infant'storso, to laterally across the lower torso, upper femur region. Theconfiguration of restraint belt 140 tightly and securely retains theinfant or child within restraint device 20. Furthermore, theconfiguration of restraint belt 140 also eliminates the need for a Gz(crotch) strap through seat pan 120 to allow a more universal fit forall infants and children approximately under forty (40) inches inheight.

Preferably, cushioning and fabrics will be provided with restraintdevice 20 and are discussed further below. Belt portions 142a and 142bemerge through the cushions and fabric adjacent slots 76 and 78 which isat a point above and proximal to the nominal shoulder height of a six(6) month child. When seating a child with a sitting height greater thana nominal six month old child, belt portions 142a and 142b project overthe shoulder of the child and then resume their belt pattern asdescribed above. When the child or infant is significantly shorter insitting height than the six month old child, provisions can be made,such as the disposal of extra padding or a plurality of hygiene shields181 between the infant and seat pan 120, etc., to boost the smallerchild to the nominal shoulder height of a six month old child. In lieuof stackable shields, an infant adaptor shim (not shown) having paddingdisposed within can be provided to elevate the infant.

Alternatively, belt portions 142a and 142b may be routed directly frompanel 60 and through grooves 94a and 94b, respectively, to translate thedirection of belt portions 142a and 142b from vertical and parallel tothe child's torso, to lateral across the lower torso, upper femurregion, affecting a restraint lap belt. This alternative beltconfiguration (FIG. 10), while inappropriate for use in higher riskenvironments (e.g. automotive use at any time, aircraft use duringtakeoff and landing), can be utilized during the cruise portion of aflight to assure protection from turbulence events while providing agreater level of comfort for the child or infant, as well as theaccompanying adult. The use of this alternative belting configuration,where appropriate, may also encourage greater compliance during periodswhere the belting configuration illustrated in FIG. 9 is required(higher risk environments). It should be understood that there areseveral alternative belt configurations which can be utilized with thepresent invention which would be apparent to one having ordinary skillin the art and that such alternative configurations are also consideredwithin the scope of the present invention. For example, it is notnecessary that belt portions 142a and 142b hang or drape as illustratedin FIG. 10 or that belt portions 142a and 142b are twisted or turned inany one specific configuration.

Restraint device 20 is preferably provided with conventional cushioning,padding and coverings (not shown) throughout device 20 to providecomfort and additional safety which in turn encourages child or infantpassenger use. Preferably, the coverings provided are constructed fromconventional cloth materials to provide aesthetic and comfort benefitsto the child passenger, as well as hiding the underlying frame member(base member 30, back panel 60, hinged structure 90 and seat pan 120) ofdevice 20.

The cushions, padding and coverings are modular in design to allow forrapid changes. The coverings preferably extends over the entire assembly20. With respect to base member 30, the covering can be in a skirtedmanner to discourage tampering with the security of seat beltarrangement. The covering and padding are also attached such that theinstaller can access the seat belt passageway when initially securingrestraint device 20 to existing seat 300, as described above. Thecushions, padding and coverings can be similar to cushions, padding andcoverings normally associated with a conventional aircraft passengerseat.

Additionally or alternatively, a restraint seat pad 170 can be providedwhich is attached to restraint device 20 by conventional means, such assnaps, tapes, adhesives, etc. (not shown). Furthermore, pad 170 can beattached to restraint device 20 by hook and loop fasteners 172 disposedat various portions of pad 170 which mate with hook and loop fasteners21 disposed at various points on restraint device 20. Pad 170 provides acomfortable sitting area for the infant or small child.

A disposable shield 181 having a moisture proof liner and absorbentpadded region can be installed, for hygiene purposes, prior to placingthe small child or infant in restraint device 20. Shield 181 can bedesigned to be continuous over the restraint pan to maintain cleanlinessand control spills, diaper leaks, etc. Customized logos, designs,characters, etc. can be incorporated into shield 181 to further assureacceptance of restraint device 20 by the small child or infant.

Shield 181 preferably consists of a continuous barrier layer and acontinuous absorbent layer and is designed to be disposable with eachchild's use. Replacing shield 181 with each child's use provides thebenefit of protecting restraint devices' fabric cushions and hardwarefrom stains and soiling, leaving the remainder of the restraint seatcushion and structure clean and ready for the next child passenger,preferably, once shield 181 is replaced.

Shield 180 is attached to restraint device 20 by conventional means suchas hook and loop fasteners 182 disposed at various points of shield 181which mate with hook and loop fasteners 174 of seat pad 170 or with hookand loop fasteners 21 of restraint device 20 (where no seat pad 170 isprovided). Furthermore, shield 181 can also be attached to seat pad 170or restraint device 20 by other conventional methods such as hair netmeans, elastic, snaps, tapes, adhesives, etc. (not shown). Shields 181can be of a sufficient thickness to allow stacking of shields 181 inorder to raise a small child or infant as discussed above, oralternately be placed on or above a shim.

Restraint device 20 is designed to accommodate a full range of infantand toddler sizes approximately up to forty (40) inches and/or forty(40) pounds. Restraint device 20 is sized to fit all Part 121 and Part135 airline seats without any modifications to the seats. Restraintdevice 20 has been tested to meet the FAA's published guidance ofmaximum head path of twenty four (24) inches.

Restraint device 20 provides a low seat belt path 134 beneath seat pan120 to provide effective restraint for restraint device 20 in both theforward facing and aft facing orientations and in a wide range ofvehicle placements. Particularly, in aircraft seat placements,conventional restraint devices, such as restraint devices 400 and 450,provide limited restraint against the forward impact vector. However, inview of the low belt path feature of restraint device 20, positiverestraint of device 20 is provided in all directions. A conventionalhandle member (not shown) can also be provided for ease in transportingor carrying restraint device 20.

The frame of restraint device 20 is preferably constructed of anaircraft grade aluminum for durability, while the belts, pads, and othersoft goods can be designed for routine cleaning with soap and water.Disposable shield 180 can be designed for replacement after each use andextends the useful life of the soft goods below.

The attachment of restraint device 20 to seat 300, solely by lapbelt180, eliminates additional seat certification, labor work rule issues,and avoids other complicating variances to standard airline practices.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an alternative embodiment for the presentinvention. A child restraint device 500 is shown having a base member502, back panel 504, and seat pan 506 which would operate and bestructurally similar to base member 30, back panel 60 and seat pan 120discussed above. Furthermore, a hinged structure, locking mechanism, andrestraint belt, as described above, though not shown, could also beprovided. Restraint device 500 is provided with two seat pan supportmember 508 and 512 which are provided with a seat belt ramp 510 and 514,respectively. Preferably two support members 508 and two support members512 are provided with one support member 508 and one support member 512disposed near a left side of base member 502 and second support member508 and second support member 512 disposed near a right side of basemember 502. However, it is also within the scope of the invention toprovide single support members 508 and 512 extending across base member502.

In the aft facing orientation (FIG. 14) , seat belt 180 is positionedalong ramp member 510 of support member 508 and tightly secured, similaras described above by lifting seat pan 506. In the forward facingorientation (FIG. 15), seat belt 180 is positioned along ramp member 514of support member 508 and tightly secured. As shown, back panel can beadjusted and held in place from a vertical position (forward facingorientation) to an angled position (aft facing orientation) byconventional means. In this embodiment restraint device 500 is providedwith a rising belt path structure.

In all of the embodiments of the present invention the child and infantrestraint device is an integral unit which is provided with anarticulating linkage means for securing the base member, the back memberand the seat pan member to one another. Furthermore, the base member,back member and seat pan member can either move dependently orindependently of one another as is required or determined by use of therestraint devices of the present invention.

The instant invention has been shown and described herein in what isconsidered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment. It isrecognized, however, that departures may be made therefrom within thescope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to aperson skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A child and infant restraint device for use with a vehicle seat, said vehicle seat including an associated seat belt, said restraint device capable of being used in a forward facing orientation or in an aft facing orientation, said restraint device comprising:a base member having a front end, a rear end, a top surface and a bottom surface; a back member having a top end, a bottom end, a front surface and a rear surface, said back member rotatably connected at its bottom end directly to the rear end of said base member to allow said back member to be pivotally adjusted with respect to said base member; a continuous unitary seat pan member rotatable connected to said base member such that the entire seat pan member is rotatable between a downwardly rotated sitting position of use and an upwardly rotated position, said seat pan member and said base member defining a belt path therebetween when said seat pan is in said downwardly rotated position of use both in said forward facing orientation and in said aft facing orientation, said seat pan member connected to said base member independent of the connection of said back member to said base member, said seat pan member connected to said base member at a same horizontal plane as a portion of said belt path when said device is secured in said forward facing orientation, said back member positioned aft of said belt path when said device is secured in a forward facing orientation with said back member in said upwardly rotated open position of use, said restraint device adapted to be secured in either said forward facing orientation or in said aft facing orientation to said vehicle seat; and means for safely restraining a child or infant to said restraint device.
 2. The restraint device of claim 1 wherein said vehicle seat is a conventional airplane passenger seat.
 3. The restraint device of claim 1 further including seat pan support means disposed on the top surface of said base member providing support to said seat pan when said seat pan is in its downward sitting position.
 4. The restraint device of claim 1 further including a first hinged structure directly attached to a left side of said base member and a second hinged structure directly attached to a right side of said base member, said first and second hinged structures disposed on the top surface of said base member at the rear end of said base member, said first and second hinged structures each having a ramp portion and each defining a restraining belt groove, said hinged structures acting as a guide for said means for safely restraining and said seat belt.
 5. The restraint device of claim 4 wherein said means for safely restraining is a single sole restraint belt attached to said back panel substantially at a restraint belt middle point to divide said restraint belt into a first belt section and a second belt section, said restraint belt provided with mating buckle members at its respective ends to connect the ends of said restraint belt to each other and safely secure the disposed infant or child within said restraint device.
 6. The restraint device of claim 5 wherein said first belt section is adapted to be disposed over a left shoulder and across an upper torso area of the child or infant, over said right side hinged structure, through the groove of said right side hinged structure and over a right portion of the child's lap area; wherein said second belt section is adapted to be disposed over a right shoulder and across the upper torso area of the child or infant, over said left side hinged structure, through the groove of said left side hinged structure and over a left portion of the child's lap area for mating with said first belt section by conventional means.
 7. The restraint device of claim 6 wherein said restraint belt defines both an "X" shaped harness restraint member and a lap restraint member and has a single release point.
 8. The restraint device of claim 1 further including padding or cushioning disposed throughout said restraint device.
 9. The restraint device of claim 1 further including a disposable shield member removably attached to the device for hygiene purposes.
 10. The restraint device of claim 1 further including means for retaining said seat pan member in a downward sitting position attached to said base member.
 11. The restraint device of claim 4 wherein said back member has a left side flange member and a right side flange member.
 12. The restraint device of claim 11 further including means for maintaining said back panel in an open position provided on said hinged structures and said flange members.
 13. The restraint device of claim 12 wherein said means for maintaining is a locking pin disposed through each of said hinged structures and a first aperture disposed in each of said side flanges, wherein when said back member is in its open position, said first apertures are aligned with respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted through their respective first apertures to maintain said back member in its open position.
 14. The restraint device of claim 11 further including means for maintaining said back member in a closed position.
 15. The restraint device of claim 14 wherein said means for maintaining is a locking pin disposed through each of said hinged structures and a first aperture disposed in each of said side flanges, wherein when said back member is in its close position, said first apertures are aligned with respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted rough their respective first apertures to maintain said back member in its close position.
 16. The restraint device of claim 1 further including a pair of one piece wing members each hingedly attached to said base member, said wing members disposed in an open position when said restraint device is secured to the vehicle seat in said aft facing orientation to rotate said restraint device substantially thirty degrees.
 17. A child and infant restraint device for use with a conventional airplane passenger seat, said restraint device capable of being used in a forward facing orientation or in an aft facing orientation, said conventional airplane passenger seat including an associated seat belt, said restraint device comprising:a base member having a front end, a rear end, a top surface and a bottom surface; a back member having a top end, a bottom end, a front surface and a rear surface, said back member having a left side flange member and a right side flange member; a continuous unitary seat pan member rotatably connected to said base member such that the entire seat pan member is rotatable between a downwardly rotated sitting position of use and an upwardly rotated position, said seat pan member and said base member defining an unobstructed passageway therebetween when said seat pan is in said downwardly rotated position of use both in said forward facing orientation and in said aft facing orientation, said seat pan member connected to said base member independent of the connection of said back member to said base member, said seat pan member connected to said base member at a same horizontal plane as a portion of said passageway when said device is secured in said forward facing orientation, said back member positioned aft of said passageway when said device is secured in a forward facing orientation with said back member in said upwardly rotated open position of use, said restraint device adapted to be secured in either said forward facing orientation or in said aft facing orientation to a conventional airplane passenger seat; a first hinged structure attached to a left side of said base member and a second hinged structure attached to a right side of said base member, said first and second hinged structures disposed on the top surface of said base member at the rear end of said base members, said back member rotatably connected at its bottom end to said first hinged structure and said second hinged structure; means for safely restraining a child or infant disposed within said restraint device, said hinged structures also acting as guides to said means for safely restraining and said seat belt; a pair of one piece wing structures hingedly connected to said base member; and means for maintaining said back panel in either an open or close position; wherein when securing said restraint device to said conventional airplane passenger seat said seat belt is disposed through said passageway.
 18. The restraint device of claim 17 further including seat pan support means disposed on the top surface of said base member.
 19. The restraint device of claim 18 wherein said means for maintaining is a locking pin disposed through each of said hinged structures and a first aperture and a second aperture disposed in each of said side flanges, wherein when said back panel is in its open position, said first apertures are aligned with their respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted through their respective first apertures to maintain said back member in its open position, wherein when said back panel is in its close position, said second apertures are aligned with their respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted through their respective second apertures to maintain said back panel in its close position.
 20. The restraint device of claim 17 wherein said first and second hinged structures each has a ramp portion and each defines a restraining belt groove.
 21. The restraint device of claim 20 wherein said means for safely restraining is a single sole restraint belt attached to said back panel substantially at a restraint belt middle point to divide said restraint belt into a first belt section and a second belt section, said restraint belt provided with mating buckle members at its respective ends to connect the ends of said restraint belt to each other and safely secure the disposed infant or child within said restraint device.
 22. The restraint device of claim 21 wherein said restraint belt defines both an "X" shaped harness restraint member and a lap restraint member and has a single release point.
 23. A child and infant restraint device for use with an aircraft passenger seat, said restraint device capable of being used in a forward facing orientation or in an aft facing orientation, said passenger seat including an associated seat belt, said restraint device comprising:a base member having a front end, a rear end, a top surface and a bottom surface; a back member having a top end, a bottom end, a front surface and a rear surface, said back member having a left side flange member and a right side flange member, said left side flange member and said right side flange each having a first aperture and a second aperture; a continuous unitary seat pan member hingedly connected to said base member such that the entire seat pan member is rotatable between a downwardly rotated sitting position of use and an upwardly rotated position, said seat pan member and said base member defining an unobstructed belt passageway therebetween when said seat pan is in said downwardly rotated position of use both in said forward facing orientation and in said aft facing orientation, said seat pan member connected to said base member independent of the connection of said back member to said base member, said seat pan member connected to said base member at a same horizontal plane as a portion of said belt passageway when said device is secured in said forward facing orientation, said back member positioned aft of said belt passageway when said device is secured in a forward facing orientation with said back member in said upwardly rotated open position of use, said restraint device adapted to be secured in either said forward facing orientation or in said aft facing orientation to said aircraft passenger seat; a first hinged structure attached to a left side of said base member and a second hinged structure attached to a right side of said base member, said first and second hinged structures disposed on the top surface of said base member at the rear end of said base member, said back member rotatably connected at its bottom end to said first hinged structure and said second hinged structure; said first hinged structure and said second hinged structure each having a locking pin extending through said hinged structures and mating with either said first aperture or said second aperture of a respective said flange member; a single sole restraint belt attached to said back member substantially at a restraint belt middle point to divide said restraint belt into a first belt section and a second belt sections said restraint belt provided with mating buckle members at its respective ends to connect the ends of said restraint belt to each other and safely secure an infant or child disposed within said restraint device, said hinged structures acting as guides to said restraint belt and said seat belt; a pair of wing structures hingedly connected to said base member; a pair of seat pan support means disposed on the top surface of said base member, said support means providing support to said seat pan when said seat pan is in its downward sitting position; wherein when securing said restraint device to said aircraft passenger seat said seat belt is disposed through said belt passageway; wherein when said back member is in its open position, said first apertures are aligned with their respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted through their respective first apertures to maintain said back panel in its open positions, wherein when said back panel is in its closed position, said second apertures are aligned with their respective locking pins and said locking pins are inserted through their respective second apertures to maintain said back panel in its closed position.
 24. The restraint device of claim 23 wherein said restraint belt defines both an "X" shaped harness restraint member and a lap restraint member and has a single release point.
 25. The restraint device of claim 23 wherein said wing structures are disposed in an open position when said restraint device is secured to the passenger seat in said aft facing orientation to rotate said restraint device substantially thirty degrees.
 26. A child and infant restraint device for use with a conventional airplane passenger seat, said passenger seat including an associated seat belt, said restraint device comprising:a base member having a front end, a rear ends a top surface and a bottom surface; a back member having a top end, a bottom end, a front surface and a rear surface; a continuous unitary seat pan member providing a resting area for the intended infant or child; articulating linkage means for pivotally attaching said base member to said back member and the entire seat pan member to said base member, said base member and said back member pivotally attached to one another independent from the pivot attachment of said seat pan member to said base member, said seat pan being rotatable between a downwardly rotated sitting position of use and an upwardly rotated position said seat pan member and said base member defining a belt passageway therebetween when said seat pan is in said downwardly rotated position of use both in a forward facing orientation and in an aft facing orientation, said seat pan member connected to said base member at a same horizontal plane as a portion of said belt passageway when said device is secured in said forward facing orientation, said back member positioned aft of said belt passageway when said device is secured in a forward facing orientation with said back member in said upwardly rotated open position of use, said base member adapted to be secured in either said forward facing orientation or in said aft facing orientation to said airplane passenger seat; and means for safely restraining a child or infant to said restraint device, said articulating linkage means also acting as a guide for said seat belt and said means for safely restraining; wherein said restraint device is an integral unit.
 27. The restraint device of claim 1 wherein said restraint device is adapted to be attached to an aircraft seat without modification to the aircraft seat.
 28. The restraint device of claim 17 wherein said restraint device is adapted to be attached to an aircraft seat without modification to the aircraft seat.
 29. The restraint device of claim 23 wherein said restraint device is adapted to be attached to an aircraft seat without modification to the aircraft seat.
 30. The restraint device of claim 26 wherein said restraint device is adapted to be attached to an aircraft seat without modification to the aircraft seat. 